The word “time” continuously comes to mind. What time is it? How much time do we have before it’s time to go to____? What time is the “thing”? These are the normal time questions asked often.

“Time” seems to mean more nowadays or rather my perspective on it has changed.

Last fall, I seemed to increasingly use the phrase, “I don’t have time.” I didn’t have enough time to rest. I didn’t have enough time to sort through my thoughts on things. I didn’t have time to organize. I didn’t have time to waste. I didn’t have time to handle personal business. I didn’t have enough time to get caught up on laundry. I didn’t have enough time to get caught up on work, let alone having time to work ahead and prepare. I didn’t have enough time to spend with my kid.

I was spread paper thin.

I wore too many hats.

I had too many irons in the fire.

My plate was full.

Eventually, I gave up trying to catch up and did the best I could to accomplish what I could. I had the idea that one day life would slow down a bit, even though I hadn’t a clue on when that would be. I’d then have time to handle and manage the things I’d neglected. I told myself that Rome wasn’t built in a day to encourage myself to keep pushing. When I felt guilty for resting I reminded myself that even God rested on the 7th day after creation. I convinced myself that this was life right now and it would get better. I’d been functioning in survival mode and suffering from burnout.

Then, boom, 3 days before my birthday I was laid off of work without warning. Once I processed my emotions, a lightbulb came on. Guess what girl?! YOU HAVE TIME! The still small voice said,”All you’ve been saying is that you don’t have time to do this and that. Well now you do.”

God granted me time!

Now I had time to do all of the things: deep clean my home and organize, handle financial business, and even rest. Aside from the tasks I wanted/needed to complete, I also had the flexibility in my schedule to revisit some ideas. Whatever did happen to my dreams deferred?

Ultimately, I realized that being laid off has been a blessing in disguise. I’ve grown in my faith. My stress levels have decreased tremendously. My blood pressure is the best it has been in years.

Instead of rushing to another job, I’m utilizing this time to redesign my life with God leading the way.